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Schedule A ConsultationGynecomastia is a frustrating condition that can have a variety of causes. For patients with gynecomastia, it’s important to put your health first. This includes eating a balanced, healthy diet. While there are many misconceptions about gynecomastia, it is true that eating poorly can contribute to the condition. To better understand your gynecomastia and discover effective treatment options, a consultation with a plastic surgeon like Dr. Cruise is necessary.
Gynecomastia is typically caused by unbalanced hormone levels in men. In particular, men with gynecomastia typically have higher levels of estradiol, a form of estrogen. This can cause more pronounced breasts. While typically caused by factors including genetics, declining testosterone with age, thyroid issues, or other health concerns, diet also plays a role. For men who are already prone to gynecomastia, certain foods may cause excessive weight gain or increased levels of estradiol.
A healthy, balanced diet is important regardless of conditions like gynecomastia, certain foods should be limited or avoided all together.
Processed foods are higher in carbohydrates and sugars. These empty calories are a common cause of excess weight gain. In addition, processed foods are more likely to contain chemicals such as polycarbonate or bisphenol A, which inhibit testosterone and are commonly found in containers such as cans or plastic cases. Focusing on fresh foods will improve your health and reduce the risk of gynecomastia.
Soy products such as tofu, tempeh, edamame, and dairy substitutes can be good sources of plant-based proteins for some, but they are also high in phytoestrogens. These are the plant equivalent of human estrogen, and studies have shown that they may be molecularly similar enough to mimic the effects of estrogen. This means that patients with gynecomastia may be better off avoiding these products to prevent their breast tissue from growing further.
All eggs and dairy contain chicken or cow estrogen, which is identical to the human hormone. This is true even for products that are listed as “hormone free.” These labels indicate that the livestock were not given additional hormones, however, some natural hormones will be present regardless.
Bisphenol A, or BPA, is an industrial chemical often present in plastic containers such as water bottles. BPA can mimic estrogen, worsening gynecomastia or causing other health problems. Check that your food containers or water bottles are BPA free before purchasing them to best protect your health.
When gynecomastia is persistent for two or more years, it is highly unlikely it will go away on its own. The only viable option for permanently getting rid of it is with surgery. Gynecomastia surgery permanently removes excess breast tissue and fat to restore a masculine chest contour. Dr. Cruise is among the leading gynecomastia surgeons in the United States, helping countless patients restore their confidence.
To learn more about gynecomastia surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Cruise. Call our Newport Beach, CA office or contact us online. For out-of-town patients, virtual consultations are also available.
Dr. Joseph Cruise is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. Regarded as one of the top gynecomastia surgeons in the world, Dr. Cruise has gynecomastia-specific content that can be found at lagynecomastia.org. Dr. Cruise has dedicated his career to cosmetic surgery but has also had extensive training in General Surgery, Hand Surgery, and Microvascular Surgery. Dr. Joseph Cruise is also a member of the Rhinoplasty Society as well as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
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